The TikTok algorithm is a mysterious beast that proves difficult in predicting it’s next move. As a result, users are always trying new tricks and techniques to get an edge on the competition or to evade restrictions. One such example is the use of the ‘FakeBody’ hashtag. But what is the Fakebody hashtag, and does it work for its intended purpose?
What does #Fakebody mean on TikTok?
Videos that may be considered potential nudity by the TikTok algorithm often feature the #FakeBody hashtag. The reason users add the Fakebody hashtag to their posts is an attempt to signal to the algorithm that the clip contains AI-generated content and not ‘real nudity’.
TikTok takes a firm stance on sexually suggestive content. Due to algorithms being necessary to moderate the millions of clips uploaded regularly, there is some ambiguity on what content is deemed unacceptable. As a result, users often find their content flagged for misconduct despite others posting similar content without restriction.
The community guidelines state that sexually arousing content may be deemed offensive to some, meaning that provocative content runs the risk of being flagged by AI or human detection. TikTokers are aiming to reduce their chance of being flagged by including the #fakebody hashtag.
We are mindful that certain behaviors related to sexual arousal or suggestiveness may be offensive to some people and may put young people at risk of exploitation. We do not allow seductive performances or allusions to sexual activity by young people, or the use of sexually explicit narratives by anyone.
Sensitive and Mature Themes | TikTok
In short, tagging a provocative post with #FakeBody is an attempt of appeasement towards the algorithm by offering it evidence to suggest that “There is no nudity going on here, and there’s certainly no human nudity. This is simply an artistic expression. So move along! “
![post displaying a girl dancing with the hashtag #fakebody in the video description](https://megasplain.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/fakebody-1.png)
Does the #FakeBody hashtag work on TikTok for escaping bans?
There is no evidence to suggest that the algorithm considers hashtags when evaluating potential nudity within a post. The widespread inclusion of the hashtag is likely down to us not being able to see the thousands of posts removed despite including the hashtag.
We only see the posts that remain. This leads us to believe that posts including the hashtag #Fakebody can now bypass the algorithm. As a result, the hashtag takes on a life of its own as people discover the supposed anti-ban powers of the hashtag!
We use both automated and human evaluation to detect and take action against violations of our Community Guidelines. If we find violations and remove that content, the account owner will be notified.
Content violations and bans | TikTok Help Center
The realistic solution to avoiding TikTok algorithm bans is to ensure that your content resides within the written law of the TikTok terms of use. Should your post be deemed inappropriate – such as sexual narratives or excessive nudity – your content is at risk of removal, regardless of the inclusion of the #FakeBody hashtag.
It’s better to err on the side of caution if you value your content. The Fakebody hashtag will not protect your uploads if the algorithm deems your video inappropriate.
Hashtags develop a life of their own sometimes. #xyzcba, anyone?
Historically, there are many cases of hashtags developing a life of their own when TikTokers decide that the algorithm is paying attention. One such hashtag is #xyzcba. Whilst the hashtag offers no boost by the algorithm, many notice that viral posts often contain the hashtag. As a result, more people will include it in their own posts, adding further virality of the tag.
![image showcasing #xyzcba hashtags on tiktok and the many views that each have, suggesting that the hashtag works.](https://megasplain.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/xyzcba.png)
There is a single potential use for these viral hashtags. Even though the algorithm pays no notice, others aware of the hashtag #xyzcba, or #fakebody, may stumble across your video upon searching for the popular hashtags themselves. With that in mind these viral hashtags offer no additional benefits over a standard hashtag, such as ‘dancing’ or ‘funny’.
Does Fakebody work for TikTok and should I use it?
The ban-evasion properties of #Fakebody is nothing more than urban myth. Therefore, it doesn’t matter whether you include it or not. The best way to avoid a ban is to ensure your posts cannot be confused for breaking the rules by the TikTok algorithm. You can read up on the TikTok community guidelines Here.
Looking for more TikTok posts? Check out ‘What is the Fence on TikTok‘ and ‘What does KIAB mean on TikTok‘.